Underwater Paint for a Pond

A backyard pond should be painted with an underwater paint and sealant

Installing a concrete pond can be a great addition to your backyard that you will enjoy for years to come. It may also serve as a unique feature, raising the value of your home when it comes time to sell. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your pond will help it last longer, adding years of enjoyment for your family and friends. If you would like to paint a concrete pond, it is important to use an epoxy paint that is both safe for the fish and will withstand time.

A Strong Foundation

Concrete is a popular choice for backyard ponds because it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. According to Pond Trade Magazine, concrete works well as a pond-building material because of its great strength and capability to handle up to 10,000 gallons of water, maybe even more. However, it is important to waterproof your concrete pond with a rubber or hybrid liner, or by applying a sealant. Epoxy paint acts as a sealant.

Non-Toxic and Durable

Epoxy paint is a great choice when painting a concrete pond. Epoxy is a durable, waterproof substance that consists of a base and curing agent, producing a hard brittle surface that resists abrasion -- a good thing if your pond has turtles. It is extremely cleanable and chemical resistant and offers an impermeable seal that will protect your concrete from the pond water. It is important to go with an epoxy paint that does not contain volatile organic compounds because VOC gases will harm the fish and aquatic plants. While epoxy paints may be on the expensive side, they are non-toxic and easily applied.

First Things First

Thoroughly clean your pond before applying the epoxy paint. Using a wire brush or rag, scrub the entire pond surface to remove all particles, dirt or other organics. After scrubbing, you can use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse the pond. Trash bags or a shop vac may be helpful for removing any unwanted debris. After you've cleaned the pond surface, mix one part muraitic acid to three parts water and apply to the concrete. This will remove all calcium sulphate and prepare the concrete to be painted. It is also a good idea to check the pond for cracks. Patch any noticeable cracks with a concrete patching agent found at your local hardware store.

Brush or Roller

Once the surface is cleaned and you've patched all cracks, you can now paint your pond. Read the directions on your chosen VOC-free epoxy paint before applying. It is imperative to your safety and the outcome of the job for you to follow them exactly. Use a paint brush or paint roller and be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask throughout the duration of the painting process. Make sure the paint has dried and there are no flaws or cracks before filling the pond with water.